Ajaz Patel, the New Zealand left-arm spinner, has identified Rishabh Pant’s wicket as the turning point in the Mumbai Test, which ultimately played a crucial role in India’s defeat. Speaking after the match, Patel highlighted how Pant, who had been in excellent form, could have taken the game away from New Zealand had he been allowed to continue his aggressive innings.

Pant, known for his fearless batting, was looking dangerous as he began to build a crucial partnership with Ravichandran Ashwin. At that point, India was in a strong position to dominate the game. After playing a 64-run knock from 57 balls at a strike rate of 112.28, Pant’s time on the crease came to an end when he was dismissed by Ajaz Patel in the 22nd over.

Patel credited his delivery that removed Pant as a key moment in the game. “Rishabh could’ve taken the game away from us if he had stayed longer,” Patel remarked. He added that Pant’s aggressive style of play had the potential to quickly accelerate India’s score and change the course of the match. The wicket of Pant not only silenced a key threat but also allowed New Zealand to gain control over India’s batting order.

Following Pant’s dismissal, India lost wickets quickly, and their innings fell apart, unable to recover. Patel’s performance with the ball was vital in restricting India’s progress, as he finished with impressive figures and continued to exert pressure throughout the match.

Patel’s insight into the Pant wicket underscored how crucial moments in a match can change its entire course, with one dismissal often being the difference between victory and defeat. His role in the Mumbai Test has solidified his reputation as a match-winner for New Zealand.